Not being able to sleep can be one of the worst things in the world. Many people are turning to natural sleep aids such as Valerian root vs melatonin. However, which one of these is better and why?

Before we can really compare Valerian root vs melatonin, we first need to get an understanding of each.

What Is Valerian Root?

Valerian root is native to Europe and Asia. It is part of the Caprifoliaceae family. Its scientific name is Valeriana officinalis. Unlike other botanicals, the active compounds live in the roots of this plant. It contains several alkaloids, as well as essential oils and contains analgesic properties.

Valerian root has been traced back to ancient Greece and Rome. It has been utilized for centuries to help aid with insomnia. However, this herb does not have the scientific research to prove the benefits or support that it offers. So, you need to consult with your medical doctor before purchasing Valerian root. They will be able to go over the benefits and effects it may offer.

Do not take anecdotal reporting as safe. Everyone reacts differently to herbs, supplements, and medication. This is why we ask that you consult with your doctor before trying this herb. Valerian Root is a tall grassy plant. However, it is the roots that offer wellness support. It contains purple or pink flowers that will bloom in June.

What Is Melatonin?

Melatonin is a hormone that the brain produces as a response to darkness. Any type of light being introduced at night can hinder melatonin from being produced. As we age the natural production of melatonin will decrease.

Melatonin the supplement is created synthetically in a lab. It comes in capsules or tablets and can be used at night to help promote sleep. Melatonin has been utilized for many years.

Melatonin is safe to use for short-term use. As always, it is best to speak to your doctor before you try any new supplements or herbs. However, unlike many other sleep aids, melatonin is not habit forming, nor does the result diminish over time, and best of all it does not have a lingering effect.

So, most people can feel well rested the next day versus feeling tired all day. This is the problem with most sleeping aids and the biggest reason why so many people choose melatonin.

Valerian Root Vs Melatonin: How Do They Work?

So, the biggest difference between Valerian root vs melatonin is the fact that Melatonin is a hormone whereas Valerian Root is an herb. Valerian root has been used as a sleeping aid for more than 2,000 years.

How Does Valerian Root Work?

Valerian root works with neurotransmitters within the brain. This includes GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). GABA is known for regulating the nerve impulses within the brain. The compounds that are found in Valerian root can break down GABA. It has been scientifically proven that the more GABA in your body, the more relaxed you feel. As a result, individuals can fall asleep faster.

How Does Melatonin Work?

Melatonin, as we stated above, is a hormone that the body naturally produces. As we age, our ability to produce melatonin decreases. The production of melatonin increases when it’s dark. It helps our body know when it’s time to go to sleep.

With the right amount of melatonin, those who suffer from insomnia or other sleep conditions will notice they can drift off to sleep with ease. It is recommended that you stay away from blue light and other electronics before bedtime. These things will hinder the production of melatonin.

Which Is Better Valerian Or Melatonin?

It will all come down to your personal preference. However, it’s a bit hard to compare the two because they are very different. Melatonin is a hormone while Valerian Root is an herbal supplement. They will both provide different effects when taken.

It’s very important to evaluate why your having trouble sleeping. This will help know which supplement will work best for you! As always, we encourage our customers to talk with their doctor before purchasing any herbs or supplements. They will be able to help you decide which would work for you best.

If you work late nights or travel a lot, melatonin may be your answer. It is designed to help improve your internal clock.

If you are lacking sleep because you have anxiety or a mind that is always worrying, Valerian Root may help you relax and be able to drift off to sleep with ease.

The choice is up to you. There is no right or wrong answer here. It will be important that you talk to your doctor so they can review the risk and benefits involved with both. Alternatively, you could try Melatonin one night and Valerian Root the next night. This should help you see how each works with your body.

Is Valerian Root vs Melatonin – Which Is Safer?

Valerian Root is an herb and there is still a lot that needs to be understood about this remedy. Melatonin, on the other hand, occurs naturally within the body. This hormone is responsible for our internal clock.

So, Melatonin is considered to be more natural and safer than Valerian Root. However, when taking any type of supplement rather it is Valerian Root or Melatonin, you should consult with your family doctor. They can give you a better insight into these supplements and what they can offer you!

Overall, Melatonin is naturally produced in the body and is the preferred sleeping aid when compared in the medical field. During my last hospital stay, they offered me Melatonin to help me sleep. I graciously took it, and within 30 minutes I was asleep.

To be fair, I have never tried Valerian Root. In fact, before this article, I had never heard about it. So, my point is, that I have not properly tried both but in a medical setting, I was offered Melatonin. This leads me to believe that doctors prefer this sleep aid over others.

Is Valerian Similar To Melatonin?

Valerian Root vs Melatonin are similar in the fact that they both can help promote sleep. They go about it in different ways. However, that is really where the similarities stop. We did compare Valerian Root vs Melatonin more above.

What Happens If You Take Melatonin And Valerian Root Together?

It will be important to ask your physician before mixing Valerian Root vs Melatonin. However, reporting that we found online states that you can take the two supplements together to help with restless nights or inconsistent sleep patterns. Again, this is anecdotal reporting and the reason why we ask you to consult with a medical professional first.

Besides Incorporating Melatonin Or Valerian Root, What Else Can I Do To Improve Sleep Quality?

While Melatonin or Valerian Root can help you get a restful night’s sleep, you may want to try some other things to help. Believe it or not, your diet can play a huge role in the type of sleep you are getting.

You will want to have a balanced diet that is packed with fresh fruits, veggies, whole grains, and healthy fats. It is better to eat small potions, as this will help you stay full for longer.

In addition to your diet, regular exercise can help improve your sleep patterns. You do not want to partake in vigorous exercise before bed. You want your heart rate and blood pressure to be in a normal range to get the best night’s rest.

Your body needs to be relaxed to quickly fall asleep and stay asleep. If you need to exercise before bed, be sure it is something gentle like yoga. This will help promote sleep rather than get your heart racing.

There are other sleep aids on the market as well, but again it will be important to speak to a doctor before making a purchase. Natural alternative sleep aids such as Valerian Root, kratom, and Melatonin can be the answer that you have been searching for.

What About Valerian Roots And Kratom?

There is a lot that is still not understood about kratom. We ask that you do not mix any supplements with kratom and always be open and honest with your physician. They will be able to determine if kratom or valerian root is right for you. They will also be able to go over the benefits and side effects of both, as well as dosing. Check out our blog on Valarian root and kratom.

Valerian Root vs Melatonin: Conclusion

Not being able to sleep is the worst. It will affect every part of your life. As we age, insomnia seems to become more prevalent. This is mainly due to the body’s inability to produce melatonin like it did when we were young.

If you suffer from a sleep disorder you need to consult with your doctor right away. Do not let it go, as it will only hinder other parts of your life. Your doctor will have a series of questions for you to answer. This will help them understand why you are having issues sleeping.

From that assessment, your doctor will be able to make recommendations for sleep aids that could help you. Valerian Root vs Melatonin are both great supplements that have been utilized as sleep aids for thousands of years.